Pattaya

🍜

Local Cuisine

Sections

Traditional Dishes

  1. Pad Thai

    • Cultural Significance: A national dish of Thailand, Pad Thai is a stir-fried noodle dish that reflects the country's culinary evolution.
    • Typical Ingredients: Rice noodles, shrimp or chicken, tofu, eggs, bean sprouts, peanuts, lime, and tamarind paste.
    • Preparation Method: Noodles are stir-fried in a wok with the other ingredients and served with lime and crushed peanuts.
    • Where to Find: Street vendors and local restaurants like "Pad Thai Thip Samai" (though this is more famous in Bangkok, you can find similar quality in Pattaya).
    • Price Range: 50-100 THB ($1.50-$3).

  2. Som Tum (Green Papaya Salad)

    • Cultural Significance: A popular dish in Thailand, especially in the northeast, it symbolizes the balance of flavors in Thai cuisine.
    • Typical Ingredients: Green papaya, tomatoes, green beans, peanuts, lime juice, fish sauce, and chili.
    • Preparation Method: Ingredients are pounded together in a mortar and pestle to create a spicy, tangy salad.
    • Where to Find: Local markets and street food stalls, especially in areas like Thepprasit Night Market.
    • Price Range: 30-80 THB ($1-$2.50).

  3. Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup)

    • Cultural Significance: This iconic soup represents the bold flavors of Thai cuisine, often enjoyed as a communal dish.
    • Typical Ingredients: Shrimp, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, fish sauce, lime juice, and chili.
    • Preparation Method: Ingredients are boiled together to create a fragrant and spicy broth.
    • Where to Find: Seafood restaurants like "Mum Aroi" or "The Glass House."
    • Price Range: 100-250 THB ($3-$8).

  4. Khao Pad (Fried Rice)

    • Cultural Significance: A staple dish in Thai households, it showcases the use of leftover ingredients.
    • Typical Ingredients: Jasmine rice, eggs, vegetables, and a choice of meat (chicken, shrimp, or crab).
    • Preparation Method: Rice is stir-fried with the other ingredients and seasoned with soy sauce and fish sauce.
    • Where to Find: Available at most local eateries and street food stalls.
    • Price Range: 40-100 THB ($1.20-$3).

  5. Massaman Curry

    • Cultural Significance: This dish reflects the influence of Indian cuisine on Thai food, often served during special occasions.
    • Typical Ingredients: Beef or chicken, potatoes, peanuts, coconut milk, and Massaman curry paste.
    • Preparation Method: Meat is simmered with the curry paste and coconut milk until tender.
    • Where to Find: Restaurants like "Cabbages & Condoms" or "Pattaya Thai Restaurant."
    • Price Range: 120-300 THB ($4-$9).

Markets and Street Food Areas

  • Thepprasit Night Market: A bustling market known for its variety of street food, including grilled meats, seafood, and local snacks. Open Friday to Sunday.
  • Pattaya Floating Market: Offers a unique dining experience with food stalls on boats, serving traditional Thai dishes and snacks.
  • Soi Buakhao: A street lined with food stalls and small restaurants, perfect for sampling local dishes at affordable prices.

Restaurants Known for Authentic Local Food

  • Mum Aroi: Famous for its fresh seafood and traditional Thai dishes, located near the beach.
  • The Glass House: Offers a beautiful beachfront dining experience with a wide range of Thai and seafood dishes.
  • Cabbages & Condoms: A unique restaurant that serves delicious Thai food while promoting social causes.

Price Ranges

  • Street food: 30-100 THB ($1-$3)
  • Casual dining: 100-300 THB ($3-$9)
  • Upscale restaurants: 300-800 THB ($9-$25)

Local Customs and Etiquette

  • Dining Style: Thai meals are typically shared, so it’s common to order several dishes for the table.
  • Utensils: Use a fork and spoon; the fork is used to push food onto the spoon, which is used for eating.
  • Respect for Food: It’s considered polite to finish all the food on your plate, as leaving food can be seen as wasteful.
  • Tipping: While not mandatory, rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated in restaurants.

Conclusion

Pattaya offers a rich culinary experience that reflects the vibrant culture of Thailand. From street food to fine dining, the local cuisine is diverse and flavorful, making it a must-try for any visitor. Enjoy your culinary journey in Pattaya!